Our favourites
Hotels and B&Bs
One of the things I love is finding cozy places to stay when we travel. If the accommodation radiates soulfulness, it is often owned by people who have poured much of their soul into the place. The staff are usually very friendly and welcoming.
Not surprising, perhaps, as they contribute to creating the atmosphere that the place has, which we simply adore when traveling here in Italy.
TIP: Visit the hotel’s website and ask for a quote – you often get a good deal outside of peak season.
We’ll start with some favorites, and I’ll add more as we discover these often well-hidden hotels/B&Bs
Milan
Milano is a bustling city with a fast pace, beautiful architecture, and a melting pot for fashion. People come here from all over the world to attend fairs and see the latest in fashion and art. Watch out for your credit card; things can get a bit heated when all the major fashion brands are available within a 10-minute walking radius.
Must-see: The Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Cimitero Monumentale, and Navigli (Milan's answer to Grünerløkka)."
Hotel tip: Lafavia4 Milano
A super central, homely B&B with beautifully decorated rooms/apartments, each with its own character. The tram stops right outside the hotel and most places are a maximum of 10 minutes away and you travel with the incredibly charming old trams. Good breakfast that can be ordered on request and in summer it is served outside on the roof terrace.
The owner teaches tarot and is cordially present every morning - if you're lucky he has time for a reading.
Venice
The city built on stilts driven into the clay to stabilize the ground and surrounded by water on all sides. Venice has a very special atmosphere, and even though I have visited the city several times, it feels like I have only lifted a small corner of a blanket that hides all the city's secrets.
Must see: St. Mark's Square, Bridge of Sighs, Murano, and everything else. Bring good shoes and walk around the city early in the morning or in the evening - always just as magical!
Hotel tips: Bloom and Settimo Cielo.
This stylish B&B is located next door to the San Stefano church, super central in Venice. Walking distance to most everything and if your legs are tired, it's not far to the nearest water bus that goes criss-crossing the canals.
The owner of these two B&Bs is an interior designer and it really shows in the elegantly furnished rooms, which all have one color theme. At the reception you will be greeted by English Anthony who has lived in the city for the past 20 years and is more than happy to give you tips on how to spend the day and where to eat. At the top of the rooms there is a roof terrace where you have a great view out over the roofs.
Quercianella
Quercianella is located just south of Livorno and is an old seaside town that today breathes a bit slowly and is somewhat 'forgotten' by foreign tourists. The town itself is not very exciting, but we have found a gem of a restaurant/hotel that we visit when the longing for a swim and good food arises.
Must see: The sea and the sunset.
Hotel tips: Villa Margherita. We stumbled upon this hotel by chance while searching for a beach in the summer heat. The first thing that caught our attention was a large private parking area, so there are no issues with parking during the summer season.
The second surprise was the outdoor area with fantastic sea views. There were antique statues, landscaped gardens, a pool, and a restaurant on the terrace in front of the hotel. Everything looked like it was taken from an Italian movie from the 1950s. The fact that the seafood tastes heavenly is a bonus, and it pairs perfectly with a glass of prosecco while you enjoy the sunset.
I want to note that we have never stayed at the hotel, but it is often used for weddings and events.
Viterbo
The city is perhaps best known for its hot springs and the Festival of Lights, which takes place on September 3rd. You can read more about the city and the Festival of Lights on our blog.
Must experience: The hot springs, which are available both as a spa and for free in the nature surrounding the city.
Hotel tips: B&B dei Papi. A small, personal B&B located in the historic center of the city. If you arrive by car, you can park at the public parking lot below the historic center and take the elevator up to the old town. The hotel is just a few minutes' walk away.
The hotel is run by a couple who have decorated it with a focus on relaxation, history, and enjoyment. Breakfast is served in a cozy room in the personal little suite (4 in total). If you wish to book accommodation, we recommend that you contact them directly and ask for a good offer.
Bay of Naples
If you plan to visit the Bay of Naples, including Naples, Sorrento, Vesuvius, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast, it can be beneficial to stay in Castellammare de Sabbia. It's cheaper and less touristy, but it's wise to have a car, preferably one that’s not too big.
Must see: Pompeii, Monte Faito, Amalfi Coast.
Hotel tips: Alessia's B&B. A large, spacious apartment rented out via Airbnb. Alessia and her husband welcome you with open arms, and the drive on the narrow road up to the house with the apartment is an adventure in itself. There is private parking outside.
The apartment can accommodate up to 6 people, has two bathrooms, a large kitchen with all the necessary equipment, and offers a beautiful view of the Bay of Naples. There is an outdoor area, and it's nice to take a stroll in the nearby area. There are several good restaurants close by. Ask Alessia and her husband for advice and tips, and they will be more than happy to help you
